The Deadlift Challenge

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The Deadlift Challenge

Build total-body strength and muscle with this fitness test

November 08, 2012

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In theory, the barbell deadlift is simple: pick up a heavy weight, and put it down. But in reality, it's much more complicated than that. "This one movement requires a ton of effort and forces you to concentrate on form to do it safely and effectively," says Todd Durkin, c.s.c.s, trainer to some of the biggest names in pro sports and author of The IMPACT! Body Plan[4].

Now, don't let that turn you off from the deadlift. When performed correctly, no other exercise compares for building total-body strength. That's because it targets powerful muscles like your glutes and hamstrings, while activating your core, back, quads, and shoulders at the same time. Plus, it makes every day movements like picking up your kids off the floor and moving furniture a cinch. That's why Durkin made the exercise the focus of this week's fitness challenge. The test: How many times can you deadlift your body weight in one minute?

Ready to give it a shot? Watch the above video to see Durkin attempt the challenge. He completed 20 reps in one minute. Quick tip: Perform the deadlift with an alternating grip—one hand grasping the bar overhand, the other underhand—to prevent the bar from slipping out of your hands. The result: You can lift more weight. What was your score? Let us know in the comments below.